News archive

News archive - December-2016

South Africa's agriculture minister says it is taking measures to determine the extent of damage from the armyworm pest in the Limpopo province. This follows confirmation of its detection on Friday. Wandile Sihlobo, Economist at the agricultural business chamber joins CNBC Africa for more.

Recent agricultural machinery sales data indicates that in January 2017, tractor sales were down by 18% when compared to January 2016 — with 478 units sold. However, this was 37% higher than the previous month’s sales.- Wandile Sihlobo

The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has confirmed that the fall armyworm is indeed in SA. But experts say the pest, which has already devastated crops in several neighbouring countries, is unlikely to wreak as much havoc locally as it has elsewhere.- www.farmingportal.co.za

Industry leaders agree that the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Senzeni Zokwana, demonstrates a healthy interest in agricultural matters, but is not particularly proficient in implementing policies for the sector.- www.farmersweekly.co.za